Accelerated. Asynchronous.
Designed for Your World.

Starting in Fall 2026, all ODUGlobal undergraduate, master's and certificate courses will follow an 8-week, asynchronous format. This new model is part of Old Dominion University’s commitment to making education more flexible, responsive, and aligned with your life.

Understanding 8-Week Terms

Courses will be offered in six 8-week terms each year: two in fall, two in spring, and two in summer, which allows you to focus on fewer subjects at a time while still progressing toward your goals year-round. Many students find this immersive format supports deeper learning and faster momentum.

There are no required live class meetings. Weekly engagement and deadlines keep you on track. Faculty may offer optional live sessions to connect, ask questions or dive deeper, but the core experience is fully online and on your time.

This model gives you more control over your academic journey. Whether you’re balancing work, family or military service, shorter terms and flexible access make it easier to start strong and keep going. You’ll also have more entry points throughout the year to begin, or begin again.

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ODUGlobal students are already seeing results.

Recent studies show learners in 8-week courses match or exceed performance in traditional formats, with higher completion and retention rates, especially among adult learners.

Support to Help You Thrive

Your success is our top priority. From your first course to graduation, you’ll have access to ODUGlobal’s support network: comprehensive services dedicated to helping you thrive academically, personally, and professionally in our accelerated 8-week format.

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Success Coaching & Advising

Your Student Success Advisor is your success coach—partnering with you to build a balanced schedule that fits your life.

Student Success Advisors will work closely with you to ensure course loads are manageable, help you stay on track towards your goals, and provide support throughout your academic journey. They will check in regularly throughout your program to ensure you have everything you need to succeed.

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Academic Support

Brainfuse Tutoring Services, including a Writing Lab, are available 24/7 online at no cost. 

Faculty offer office hours to answer one-on-one questions and provide learning strategies specific to their courses. They can also issue alerts for students who need additional support, so you’re quickly connected with Student Success Advisors and resources for assistance.

Discover how ODUGlobal scholarships can make earning your degree more affordable.
Time Management Training

Coming Soon

Launching Spring 2026: a self-paced free Time Management Course designed for online students in accelerated programs. Learn practical strategies for organizing your schedule, meeting deadlines, and thriving in a fast-paced learning environment.

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Wellness & Student Services

Counselingeducational accessibility, and other student services are available to support your well-being.

Need help now? Email globaladvocacy@odu.edu and they will help you navigate your roadblock and connect you with appropriate resources. 

Course Quality and Accessibility

Our online courses support your success and access through:

  • Cognitively optimized course structures using clear navigation, chunked content, and predictable layouts to reduce cognitive load.
  • Live transcription and captioning for video or any optional synchronous sessions.
  • Accessible documents and media, designed for screen readers and adaptive technology.
  • Collaborative design reviews following the Office of Educational Accessibility process and policies.
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Technology Support

ODUGlobal courses are offered through Canvas. Click the Help button in Canvas to access 24/7 chat, phone, and email assistance. 

For technical systems beyond Canvas, the ODU IT Help Desk is available (24/7): ithelpdesk@odu.edu or 757-683-3192.